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SELECTIONS 



FROM THE WRITINGS OF 



SAMUEL C. CLAPP 



SELECTIONS, 



IN PROSE AND VERSE, 



FROM THE WRITINGS OF 



SAMUEL CAPEN CLAPP, 



OF DORCHESTER. 



BOSTON: 
PRINTED BY CLAPP AND HULL, 

CORNER OF WASHINGTON AND FRANKLIN STS. 
MDCCC XXXII. 









I 



TABLE OF CONTENTS 



I. Pieces in Prose. 



On Religion ....... 


9 


On the outward Conduct of Christians 


10 


On Hypocrisy ...... 


12 


Religion promotive of Cheerfulness and Happiness 14 


Address on Music . 


15 


On Praise, as expressed in Music 


17 


On Prayer 


19 


Serious Thoughts on Death 


21 


Goodness of God . . . 


22 


Home ....... 


. 22 


On Moderation 


23 


Remarks on Duty to God .... 


25 


Pleasure of doing Good ..... 


27 


Disinterested Benevolence 


27 


Happiness ....... 


29 


On the New Year 


30 


A Letter 


33 




. 34 


On the Death of a beloved Relative 


35 


The Gospel requires that all improve their Talents 37 


None should despair 


38 


God is Love ...... 


38 



* 



IV 



II. 



CONTENTS. 




Pieces in Poetry. 




Stanzas on Spring ..... 


. 39 


A Summer's Morning 


. 40 


Music 


. 41 


The Saviour's Call .... 


. 44 


To Caroline, on the Death of a Friend . 


. 45 


On the Death of a Friend . . . , 


. 47 


For the New Year .... 


. 48 


Acrostic ....... 


. 49 


Another ...... 


. 50 


Mourners comforted , 


. 51 



MEMOIR. 



Samuel Capen Clapp, only son of Samuel 
and Anna Clapp, was born April 1, 1810. By 
his affectionate and pious parents he was brought 
up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord ; 
and he received those impressions of religion in 
earliest life, which formed in his heart the love 
of goodness, and regulated all his actions. 

At school he was distinguished for his correct 
behavior, his close application to his studies, and 
his laudable proficiency. 

He was never fond of the more boisterous 
amusements of his young companions ; and there 
was a soberness, accompanied with a retiring 
diffidence, in his demeanor, which made him 
appear unsociable ; and yet he had pleasant and 
kind feelings, and cherished the intimacy and 
friendship of some of his acquaintance, which 
they cordially reciprocated. To preserve these 
intimacies, he accustomed himself to a corres- 
pondence with his young friends and relatives ; 
2 



MEMOIR. 



and made his letters the vehicle not only of his 
tender regards, but of his affectionate counsels. 

In the Spring of 1825 he was put apprentice 
to Mr. John Cotton, of Boston, to learn the 
printing business ; and his diligence, fidelity, 
and good conduct, procured him the attachment 
as well as the approbation of his employer. 

He was passionately fond of music, both vocal 
and instrumental. In the theory and practice 
he was a skilful proficient ; and some of his 
writings on the subject are expressive of almost 
extatic feelings, and in a style of rhapsody. He 
had, also, a taste for poetry, though he enjoyed 
but little opportunity for its cultivation. It was 
exercised, principally, in aid of his musical talent, 
in compositions adapted to favorite tunes, and 
in tributary lines to the memory of departed 
relatives and friends. 

That he was truly and most exemplarily good, 
his gladdened parents perceived, and all his ac- 
quaintance acknowledged. But the emotions of 
his piety, and the ardor of his religious affec- 
tions, were veiled from human observation by 
that humility which was his peculiar character- 
istic. In his numerous writings, however, the 
fervor is apparent; and it is wonderful that a 
young person, who had enjoyed but limited ad- 
vantages, should write so much and so well. 



MEMOIR. 



From these truly miscellaneous compositions a 
few selections have been made ; and are now 
printed, merely to furnish copies to his relatives 
and friends. As they were evidently hasty com- 
positions, the writer of this Memoir has occa- 
sionally made abridgements, but has been careful 
to retain the original thought, and to make no 
other alteration than perspicuity required in the 
prose, or a better modulation seemed requisite 
occasionally in the verse. The modest writer 
would have shrunk from all notoriety as an 
author ; and it is not the design of this little 
book to claim it for him : it is not, therefore, 
published. 

His father died July 17, 1830, aged 64. His 
reflections on that event are expressive of his 
filial affection, his tender sorrow, and his christ- 
ian piety and submission. 

To his widowed mother and beloved sister he 
now more than ever endeared himself ; and as 
he approached to manhood, their dependence 
upon him and hopes from him were very great. 
But these hopes were not to be gratified ; and 
this dependence was to be transferred to a higher 
object of trust. 

The sickness of this estimable young man 
was that of a hectic. He bore it with a meek 
and humble spirit, with devout resignation to the 



MEMOIR. 



will of God, with faith in the blessed Saviour, 
and with the hope of acceptance through his 
mercy unto everlasting life. 

He deceased October 28, 1831 ; and on the 
Lord's day after his interment his pastor preach- 
ed a discourse, adapted to the affecting event, 
from Luke vii. 12, 13. " Behold there was a 
dead man carried out, the only son of his mo- 
ther, and she was a widow : and when the Lord 
saw her he had compassion on her." 

Though this little book is not published, it 
may be proper to state that, having been printed 
without incurring any expense to the family and 
with a design to do them a favor, by the libe- 
rality of the kind friends in whose office the 
author was an apprentice, it is offered to the 
relatives and acquaintance with the hope that 
such as are disposed may, by purchasing a copy, 
increase " the widow's mite," and thus twine 
the wreath of charity around the urn of her be- 
loved and lamented son. 






PIECES IN PROSE. 



RELIGION. 

Religion is not a mere performance of external rites; 
it is an internal principle, and must affect the heart as 
well as influence the outward conduct. Though we 
can generally discern a christian by the turn of his 
conversation, yet it is not always those who talk the 
most on the subject who are the most religious. 
The true christian considers religion not to consist in 
mere profession, but frequent communion with its 
Author, and deeds of benevolence towards his fellow 
mortals. He aims not at display, but endeavors to 
keep within the bounds of duty. Religion discoun- 
tenances pride, and demands of its professor to walk 
humbly with his God. The comforts and hopes of 
religion may well give rise to emotions of joy ; but 
as for boasting, it is to be excluded. The salvation 
of sinners is truly a great salvation ; and every one 
who has been brought to see his sins in their true 
light, feels the magnitude of it. The requirements 
of the gospel seem to him not hard, for he feels a 
pleasure in complying with them. He finds, by his 
own happy experience, that the yoke of Christ is 
" easy, and his burden light." Religious subjects 
seem ever new to him, and by no means does he 
get iceary of them. 

Religion, so far from being gloomy, as some have 
imagined, creates more pleasure, and is productive 
of more comfort, than can be derived from anything 
this side of heaven ; and it must be superior to evo^y 



10 SELECTIONS. 

thing else, since it has the promise of happiness here- 
after, and holds up to view a neverfading crown of 
glory, to all who will embrace it, without money 
and without price. Its proclamation is, u Behold 
noiv is the accepted time, behold noiv is the day of 
salvation." u To-day, if ye will hear his voice, har- 
den not your hearts." It is an enemy to sin, and makes 
use of the most affecting entreaties to dissuade per- 
sons from it. Its voice is, u Turn ye, turn ye, from 
your evil ways, for why will ye die." Let us obey 
this voice ; then shall we become possessed of its re- 
wards, and experience the pleasure derived from it 
forever. 

July 23, 1829. 



ON THE OUTWARD CONDUCT OF CHRISTIANS. 

Some persons who have been brought to the 
knowledge of the truth, are apt to think, that, now 
that they are turned to God, there is no danger of 
turning back. But such should remember that God 
governs them as moral agents ; and that it is their 
duty to show by their outward conduct before men, 
as well as by their inward towards God, that they 
have so renounced the world as to be superior to the 
attachments and allurements of sense and all merely 
earthly objects and pursuits. 

It is sometimes the case when you go into the 
company of professing christians, that instead of 
hearing them converse on the great subject which 
relates to their spiritual welfare, you hear them tell- 
ing long stories about this thing or that, when a few 
remarks would have answered as well ; subjects too 
of very little consequence either to themselves or 
those who hear them. To be sure it is not required 
of us to be talking of religion all the time, for there 
are many things in the business of life which it is 
liiiihlv important to converse on. But on all occa- 
sions the conversation should be regulated in such 



SELECTIONS. 11 

manner that we say nothing detrimental to the cause 
of Christ. 

We cannot put much dependence on ourselves for 
anything. This is proved by our resolving some- 
times, in our own strength, to do a certain thing ; 
but, when the time comes, we forget our former 
resolution, and neglect our purpose. We ought, 
therefore, to put all our reliance upon God to work 
in us not only to will but to c/o, according to his good 
pleasure ; always remembering that " we are not suf- 
ficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves, 
but our sufficiency is of God." 

It is very proper for christians to hold conversa- 
tion with one another, and meet together to tell what 
good things the Lord has done for them. This 
tends to mutual improvement and godly edifying. 
And it is also commendable and highly beneficial for 
them, to meet to sing praises to the most High ; 
" teaching and admonishing one another in psalms 
and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in 
their hearts to the Lord." This raises the soul with 
devotion to God, and brings us into a kind of asso- 
ciation with the spirits of just men made perfect and 
angels in heaven. 

When w r e sing, as well as when we converse, we 
should be careful that it is performed in a manner 
well pleasing to God. 

Confessing myself a great sinner, and that I have 
offended in innumerable instances, I would, in the 
sincerity of my heart, look to God to direct me in- 
what to regulate my conduct so as best to please 
him. 

Moreover : what is required of us in God's word ? 

1st. " To keep the heart with all diligence ; for out 
of it are the issues of life." 

2dly. " To let our conversation be always with 
grace ; " and, 

3dly. " To give the more earnest heed to the things 
which we have heard, lest at any time we should let 
them slip." 



12 SELECTIONS. 

Carefully regarding each of these directions, let 
every one u order his conversation aright," and 
wisely rebuke his neighbor if he observes anything 
inconsistent in his. 

u Love not the world, neither the things which 
are in the world ; " that is, love it not supremely ; 
but u let your affections be placed on things above, 
not on things on the earth." And, if you would, 
gain admittance into the kingdom of heaven, always 
live in view of your latter end ; regarding the injunc- 
tion, " prepare to meet thy God." 

At the day of judgment we shall have to give an 
account of all our conduct. Every one will be judged 
u according to the deeds done in the body* whether 
they be good, or whether they be evil." He, there- 
fore, is not in a suitable state whose morals are defec- 
tive. Let, then, some professing christians examine 
themselves, and see whether they are not too apt to 
undervalue morality. Is not this a true remark, 
" No one will be saved by morality alone ; and yet, 
no one will be saved without nloralitv " ? 

September 13, 1827. 



HYPOCRISY. 

u Every one that doeth evil hateth the light, nei- 
ther cometh to the light lest his deeds should be re- 
proved." This probably is the reason why so many 
have the form of godliness without the power thereof. 
Some who profess to be christians, and to love the 
Lord Jesus Christ, yet, through fear of reproof, are 
apt to hide their faults from men, though from God 
they cannot hide them ; and it will be of no use to 
them that they conceal them from human observa- 
tion, but on the contrary aggravate their guilt and 
increase their shame and confusion of face at the day 
of judgment, when they will be made known and 
exposed. 

Let us then consider, 1st, what it is to hate the 
lifcht. 






SELECTIONS. 



13 



When a person has clone a thing which he knows 
to be wrong, and can, by concealing it, retain, in the 
eyes of the world, the credit of integrity and faith- 
fulness, while its discovery would expose him to dis- 
trust and disgrace ; he will cautiously endeavor to 
keep up the semblance of goodness. But oh how 
different does he appear before Him u who searcheth 
the heart and trieth the reins of the children of men ! " 
He is guilty of a twofold offence ; first, of the sin 
committed ; and secondly, in dissembling or deny- 
ing it. 

To hate the light, is to shun all places of religious 
instruction, where the solemn truths of religion are 
preached, and the condition of man as a sinner is 
clearly pointed out ; and to resort to those where 
only a part of the Bible, — that part which suits them, 
— is adverted to : and even this part not rightly ex- 
plained. Or, when told of their sins, and a question 
is put home to their consciences, to turn a deaf ear 
to it. 

A more dreadful way of hating the light is evinced 
by those who condemn everything which belongs to 
religion. They cannot bear even to hear the truths 
of the gospel proclaimed ; and, when they do hear 
them, ridicule and contempt proceed from their lips. 

In view of the foregoing remarks, we may learn 
that it is our duty to avoid all disguises ; for "he 
that covereth his sins shall not prosper ; but whoso 
confesseth and forsaketh them shall find mercy." 

We should be willing to be reminded of our errors, 
and even to receive reproof when given in the spirit 
of good will ; especially friendly admonitions, paren- 
tal advice and caution, or the still more solemn di- 
rections of the faithful minister. Especially should 
we regard the checks of conscience, the warnings of 
God's spirit, and the directions of his holy word. 

Those who the name of God revere, 
And act as duteous servants here, 
In heaven with golden harps shall sing 
The praises of their heavenly king. 

3* 



14 SELECTIONS. 



RELIGION PROMOTIVE OF CHEERFULNESS AND 
HAPPINESS. 

" Let those that put their trust in thee rejoice ; let them ever shout 
for joy, because thou defendest them : let them also that love thy 
name be joyful in thee." — Psalm v. 11. 

It would seem that a subject so clearly revealed as 
Religion, could hardly admit of being misunderstood. 
Yet such is the case. By some persons it is most ab- 
surdly represented as being of a gloomy character. 
Such wrong views of it must be the consequence of a 
neglect to examine the representation given of it in the 
Bible, or the fruit of it in the lives of those who pos- 
sess its true spirit. Everywhere in scripture the 
pious and good are described as possessing peace and 
joy ; and the wicked as wretched. Indeed the vir- 
tuous have abundant reason to be cheerful, to re- 
joice, and to praise the name of the Lord, — for he 
hath forgiven their iniquities, ransomed their souls 
from destruction, and crowned them with loving 
kindness and tender mercy. what a glorious pri- 
vilege it is to be a christian ! What a blessed thing 
to be on the Lord's side ; to have a heavenly friend, 
and Saviour, arid portion ! 

Seeing, then, that christians have the prospect of 
future and everlasting felicity, as well as the promise 
of the life that now is ; and seeing that it is their duty 
to give thanks and ascriptions of praise to God who 
enriches them with spiritual blessings ; how can they 
best perform this duty to His acceptance and their 
own advantage ? By pious acknowledgment, by cheer- 
ful obedience, and by ardent praise. 

A person who professes to be religious, and yet 
says that he lias not true enjoyment, can have only 
the form of godliness, and is destitute of the power. 
The real christian will declare that he is seldom un- 
happy. Ridicule on account of religion does not 
discourage him ; adversity does not cause him to 
murmur. He is superior to the fear and regardless 
of the frowns of man : he trusts in the Lord and re- 






SELECTIONS. 15 

joices, for He defends him ; and loving his name and 
service, can be joyful in Him. 

Never let the christian cease to praise God. Let 
him spend his strength while granted to him to His 
glory ; and then will he be prepared to unite in sing- 
ing the songs of angels in that world where praise 
shall be ascribed to God and the Lamb forever and 
ever. 



ADDRESS ON MUSIC. 

**' Sing unto the Lord with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp 
unto God." — Psalm cxlvii. 7. 

In considering the subject of music, I shall show 
that it is authorized by God ; that it is the duty of 
every one, who has the capacity, to acquaint himself 
with it ; that it is alike a source of gratification and 
improvement ; and that it will constitute a part of 
the employment of heaven ; and then close with some 
reflections. 

1 . Music is authorized by God. It is often men- 
tioned in the sacred scriptures as a duty, particularly 
in the Psalms, where not only vocal but instrumental 
music is enjoined ; whence we may infer that both 
are pleasing to the Supreme Being, when performed 
aright. 

The Apostle exhorts christians to this duty in these 
words, " Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns 
and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in 
your hearts to the Lord ;" and in another place, " Let 
the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom ; 
teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and 
hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your 
hearts unto the Lord." 

And when we consider that at the birth of the Sa- 
viour, that most joyful of all occasions, the manner 
in which the angels expressed their joy was by sing- 
ing, we can have no doubt that this is a service ac- 
ceptable to God. 



16 SELECTIONS. 

2. It is the duty of every one, who is capable, to acquaint 
him se If with music . 

Some have not a good voice for singing, who yet 
have a musical ear ; and some have a turn of mind for 
vocal, and some for instrumental music. Those who 
have not a good voice, but a musical ear, cannot ex- 
pect to make that attainment in music which they 
would if they had both : but it is the case, sometimes, 
that those who think they have not a good voice, yet 
have a capacity for music, which may by cultivation 
be improved ; and those who have not the capacity 
for vocal, may substitute instrumental music for it; — so 
that, either by the one or the other, he may engage 
in this most delightful art. 

Praise in the public worship of God is as requisite 
a service as any other ; and it does, in fact, give ad- 
ditional animation to the other duties : and mistaken, 
indeed, must he be who thinks it an unnecessary or 
a minor part of the christian's duty. And how can 
praise be expressed so well, so suitably, as in strains 
of harmony ? 

3dly. Its benefits are enlivening, composing, and 
soothing. It raises the affections, calms the passions, 
and allays the sorrows. It is the expression of praise, 
the exciter of devotion. Who has not felt its influ- 
ence over his heart, when the melody fills his ear 
with sweet sounds, and conveys to his mind fine sen- 
timents ? That person whose heart is, as it were, ta- 
ken captive by music, finds in it comfort in affliction, 
a source of joy, a delightful amusement, and a heaven 
on earth. 

4. It will constitute apart of the employment of the bless- 
ed in heaven. 

That heaven is a place of inconceivable joy, all ac- 
knowledge who admit the truths of revelation ; and 
that our happiness will be in proportion to our ca- 
pacities of receiving it, is equally certain. As then 
the true christian finds in music the most suitable and 
agreeable means of expressing his joy, his praise, and 
his liveliest devotional feelings, he may well expect 









SELECTIONS. 17 

to do this in a more perfect manner in the service of 
the upper sanctuary. But the scripture encourages 
this expectation in informing us that "the redeemed 
shall come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy. 57 
And they are represented as singing " a new song ; " 
and as u singing the song of Moses and the Lamb." 
And even inslmmental music is spoken of, and the ce- 
lestial choirs as using " harps and golden viols," for 
aiding their music. 

Upon the whole, then, we should be thankful that 
God has given us a capacity for this exercise of the 
voice, so modulated and attuned. 

How much pleasure and improvement do they 
lose, who are indifferent to the charms of music ! 

Let those who engage in it, do it with truly devout 
feelings, and make it the expression of the heart as 
well as the melody of the voice ; then will God ap- 
prove, and they be edified ; and singing the songs of 
Zion on earth, be prepared for the anthems of un- 
ending praise and joy in heaven ! 

Jane 3, 1828. 



ON PRAISE. 

" Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth ; make a loud 
noise, and rejoice and sing praise. Sing unto the Lord with the harp ; 
with the harp, and the voice of a psalm. With trumpets and cornets 
make a joyful noise before the Lord, the King. — Psalm xcviii. 4, 5, 6. 

What is Music ? A combination of sweet sounds, 
under certain rules and regulations ; performed either 
by the voice, or on an instrument. Connected with 
a sense of piety, and as the expression of gratitude, 
love, and cheerfulness in the heart, it constitutes an 
important department in our holy religion. Consi- 
dered as an accomplishment, it adds greatly to the 
gratifications and pleasures of the christian. So 
much so, that to live in the neglect of attuned affec- 
tions and ascriptions of praise in the heart, if not in 
the voice, would be to lose much of duty and of en- 



18 SELECTIONS. 

joyment. And, indeed, to hear the praises of the 
Most High sung by others, is very animating. 

In times of prosperity and gladsomeness, in what 
manner can the christian better express his feelings 
than by making melody in his heart and with his 
voice to the Lord ? 

What indeed would Religion be without expres- 
sions of praise ? The birth of a Saviour is announced 
to ruined man: but what shall hail his entrance into the 
world ? No songs are heard issuing from the tongues 
of mortals ! How inapplicable to such an occasion 
does this seem ! But, hear the choirs of angels, and 
the symphonies of the shepherds watching their 
flocks by night, saying, " Glory to Gpd in the high- 
est : peace on earth : good will towards men ! " and 
how different does it appear ! 

On joyous occasions, if music was excluded, what 
could be substituted for it ; and who would not feel 
the loss of it ? 

Music, when performed in a right manner, and 
connected with right views, never fails to soothe and 
to cheer ; whenever it fails of this effect, it is because 
the heart is not right. 

Considered as an amusement, music inspires cheer- 
fulness. Those who are fond of it, are kept from 
dissipation ; and it has a tendency to draw the 
thoughts from much of the folly of this world. 
Therefore, when not abused and performed with 
wrong views, it has a most beneficial influence, inde- 
pendent of religious appropriation. 

As a service of the sanctuary, it has a very powerful 
effect in deepening the impression of divine truth on 
the heart, in allaying tumultuous passions, soothing 
cares, elevating the affections, and enkindling devo- 
tion. And hence it is so frequently mentioned and 
commended in the Word of God. 

Some reflections now present themselves for con- 
sideration. 

1st. How music is to he performed. It is to be 
performed joyfully. It should be connected with no 



SELECTIONS. 19 

impure desires. The heart must be fixed entirely on 
the subject to which the music is set. A sense of 
gratitude to God must be felt. Alas ! how many- 
engage in it without thinking of God ! 

2dly. It should be performed with spirit and 
energy. The whole soul should be engaged in it, 
and send up its holiest aspirations to heaven. 

3dly. When performed with the voice, or with 
musical instruments, it should be performed skil- 
fully ; otherwise it loses much of its good effect : 
but this should be in aid of the voice ; not mere 
sound, but sentiment. 

Lastly, Remember that you must die. The time 
is coming when the voice which is now so melodious 
shall be silent. then praise the Lord while you 
have breath. Praise him in your tunes of sacred 
music. Praise him in your affections and in your 
actions. 

" Then, when your voice is lost in death, 
Your soul will praise him best." 



ON PRAYER. 

" Let us come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain 
mercy, and find grace to help in every time of need." 

Prayer must be acknowledged by all who read 
and believe the Bible to be an important and neces- 
sary duty. 

" Watch and pray that ye enter not into tempta- 
tion," said Christ to his disciples ; which certainly 
implies that those who do not pray are likely to be 
ensnared by evil. 

In contemplating this subject, let us consider what 
it is to pray in reality. 

To pray aright, is to pray with sincerity and 
earnestness. It is to offer up our petitions to God, the 
hearer of prayer, and the giver of every good and 
perfect gift, and who can alone supply all our need, 



20 SELECTIONS. 

with the same earnestness as would a person who is 
starving ask for a morsel to gratify his appetite. It 
is to believe that he is abundantly able and willing 
to grant our requests ; and that if he withholds any- 
thing from us which we ask for, it is for our good. 

" The prayers of the wicked are an abomination 
to the Lord ; " but " the effectual fervent prayer of 
the righteous availeth much." Whoever prays with 
sincere desires, and devout affections, will come ac- 
ceptably to the throne of grace. He who feels him- 
self an unworthy, guilty sinner, should prostrate him- 
self before God ; tc for to this man will He look who 
is of a humble and contrite spirit, and who trembles 
at his word," fears his displeasure, and desires his 
mercy. 

We all have encouragement to pray ; and, if we 
do not, we neglect the only effectual means of help, 
support, comfort, and grace. 

But, u when thou prayest be not as the hypocrites 
are, for they love to pray standing in the corners of 
the streets, that they may be seen of men : but thou, 
when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou 
hast shut the door, pray to thy Father which is in 
secret, and thy Father who seeth in secret shall re- 
ward thee openly." It appears from this direction 
and declaration of our Lord, that secret prayer is the 
most likely to bring down the divine blessing ; 
though public prayer, when performed with right 
motives and in a proper place, will obtain favor of 
the Lord. 

God calls upon men, everywhere, to pray, lifting 
up holy hands. Pray, then, for heaven is won by 
prayer. 

Finally. Prayer is a great source of comfort ; 
the greatest which the christian can find in the time 
of trouble. 

Pray, then, you who havecast off fear and restrained 
prayer before God ; pray that the thoughts of your 
hearts may be forgiven you. Pray you who are in 
affliction, that you may find support and relief. 



SELECTIONS. 21 

Pray you who are in prosperity, that you may use 
God's gifts aright. Pray you who are on a sick 
bed ; spend your last breath in prayer to God for 
the salvation of your soul. And oh ! may the Lord 
be gracious, and receive you to himself in glory ! 



SERIOUS THOUGHTS ON DEATH. 

Passing by the graveyard the other day, as I was 
coming home from church, reflections like these 
presented themselves to my mind. 

Here slumber persons, perhaps some of my rela- 
tions and friends, who were once as young and as 
gay as I am ; with as bright prospects before them 
for the future as I have, and as little thought that 
but a few days more and they should be numbered 
with the silent dead : but death came, " and their 
purposes were broken off, even the thoughts of their 
heart." Why have I any more reason to expect long 
life than they ? God has not promised me that I 
should live another day, another hour, another mo- 
ment. With Him is the future ; the present only is 
airine. In vain will the pleasures of the world fasci- 
nate at the hour of death. In vain, then, will beauty 
or riches present themselves. To look back then at 
the follies and amusements of the world, how will 
they appear ? Less than nothing ; vanity. To look 
back on past life, it appears but a vision ; a short 
period of sufferings and trial. Nothing which this 
world can afford will give support or comfort then. 
Nothing but religion can yield them. Behold the 
christian on the death bed ; there you see the effi- 
cacy of religion. His form, though emaciated with 
sickness ; his body, though racked with pain, can- 
not deprive him of the joy that reigns in the soul. 
Here his heaven begins. Already does he hear the 
song of the redeemed. Already does he imagine 
himself joining with them in their ascriptions of 
praise. And when his soul separates from the body, 
4 



22 SELECTIONS. 

with what calmness and serenity does he resign all 
earthly things, and depart in peace ; leaving awhile 
his dear relatives below, in the hope of meeting them 
in the blissful mansions above. 

If this is the death of the christian, what must be 
that of a worldly man ? Would to God there were — 
but I know of no hope for him. I must leave him 
in the hands of God, to whom devoutly I commit 
myself. 



THE GOODNESS OF GOD. 

God's goodness is discernible in everything. All 
nature speaks his praise : the birds, with their melo- 
dious notes, speak their Maker all they can ; the 
beasts of the field all seem to rejoice in their exist- 
ence, and bless the hand that made them ; but Man. 
the master of all, he who should be the most thank- 
ful, is the most ungrateful — is the least disposed to 
praise his Maker. 

Though man is endowed with reason and faculties 
superior to the beasts, yet is he, in some respects, in- 
ferior to them. God has made man with an immor- 
tal soul ; God made man to love and serve hirn. 
But how perverse, how negligent in his duty ! It 
is} of God's goodness that he has not, long ere this 
time, been cut down as a cumberer of the ground. 



HOME. 



Where a person has been bred, has passed many 
happy and pleasant days, and has experienced all the 
enjoyments of life from early years, must certainly 
be to him a spot very dear. Who that has any 
affection in his heart can fail to be strongly attached 
to that spot ? Certainly no one. Let a person, strong- 
ly united to the place which gave him birth, be 
transported into the most delightful part of the 



SELECTIONS. 23 

globe, where all things to charm the eye and please 
the mind are seen ; in such a place as this he will 
sigh, and say — ! that I was at home with my 
friends, for then should I be happy. But, though 
home is so endearing to us, the time is coming when 
we must leave it. Death will soon overtake us, and 
separate us from all our friends and connexions. But 
the separation will not be forever. There is another 
<* Home " prepared for us, if we walk in the paths 
of truth and righteousness. It is Heaven. There 
we shall not need the light of the sun, for the 
glory of God is the light thereof. There the cold 
winds of winter will not chill us, nor the scorching 
heats of summer overcome us. There all will be 
peace and harmony. There angels and archangels 
continually sing praises unto the glorious Being who 
created them, and the pure in heart shall see God. 



MODERATION. 

u Let your moderation be known unto all men," 
is a maxim which it would be well for all to adopt. 
If generally adopted, we should not see so much 
rashness as we now do in the common transactions 
of life ; we should not see so many novel opinions 
advanced and ardently defended, in spite of what rea- 
son or revelation can do to refute them. Modera- 
tion, among many people, seems to be despised. 
Tell them that they carry matters too far, and that 
they would get along much easier if they were more 
moderate, and they will condemn you as an indolent 
person, and laugh at you for what they consider 
your folly ; not considering that moderation is op- 
posed as much to indolence as to over exertion. 
That person who rushes forward in the business of 
life, determined to effect great things, regardless of 
health, personal safety, or the interests of others, is 
far behind him who, with firm and steady step, goes 
to perform the part assigned him, keeping an eye, at 



24 SELECTIONS. 






the same time, on the interests of others, and also 
regarding his health and security. It is not merely 
in the common events of life that moderation is bene- 
ficial ; it will be found so in all things, and more 
particularly in matters of religion. It is, therefore, 
on this subject that I will make a few observations. 

In the first place, we should be moderate in our 
belief of those doctrines which we sometimes hear so 
strongly advocated. The Bible should be our rule 
to go by ; and we should be slow to adopt any opin- 
ions, or to embrace any new doctrines, until we have 
ascertained whether or not the Bible teaches them. 
In this way, we shall show that we do not intend to 
have, for the foundation of our belief, the creed of 
any sect or party, however strongly advocated, ex- 
cept so far as it is warranted by scripture. 

2dly. We should be moderate in what we say of 
those who differ in opinion from us. By so doing, 
we shall save ourselves much trouble, and no doubt 
be much more esteemed by our opponents. Many 
difficulties have arisen in the christian world from 
the assertions which have been made by one religious 
denomination against another of different sentiments. 
A little moderation in our thoughts, words, and 
actions, will save us from such difficulties. 

3dly. We should be moderate in our censure. We 
should never censure a person for his bad conduct, 
before we feel confident that it is actually bad. Per- 
haps we have faults as great ourselves, and as worthy 
of censure. Therefore, it becomes us to be mode- 
rate in what we say of others, and not judge others 
too hard, lest the same judgment should be passed 
upon us. 

4th. We should be moderate in all things ; for 
moderation is a christian virtue. It is not confined 
to any particular circumstances, but it is useful under 
all. We read of no rashness or excess in our blessed 
Saviour's conduct ; all things seem to have been per- 
formed by him with regularity, firmness, and mode- 
ration. Seeing such a noble and worthy example of 



SELECTIONS. 25 

moderation is set us, and seeing that it is so much 
for our benefit, we should be unwise indeed, if we 
should suffer moderation to form no part of our 
conduct. 1830. 



REMARKS ON OUR DUTY TO GOD. 

The scriptures inform us, that we should direct 
our first and most zealous efforts towards perform- 
ing our duty to God. Prior to everything else, this 
is to be made the business of life. Whatever we are 
called to do should be interwoven with it, and made 
to cooperate in promoting the same cause. The im- 
portant inquiry then arises — What is our duty to 
God ? — To which it may be replied, that it is plainly 
pointed out in the Bible, and all centres in one grand 
point, viz., to love the Lord our God with all our 
heart, and our neighbor as ourselves. He only who 
does this, performs his duty faithfully — and where 
shall we look for such an one ? All are guilty of 
breaking at least one of the commandments, and we 
are told that if we offend in one point of the law, we 
are guilty of all. The conclusion then is, that all 
men have come far short of performing their duty 
perfectly ; but all are not hastily condemned- By 
sending his " well-beloved Son" into the world, 
God has provided a way by which all, who truly re- 
pent of their sins, can be saved ; and this salvation is 
free — extending to every member of the human fa- 
mily. In order, therefore, to perform our duty to- 
wards God acceptably, it is necessary that we should 
believe on the name and obey the will of the Saviour 
he has sent, and whom to know aright is life eternal. 
Nor is this all. As we are to love our neighbors as 
ourselves, we must make them acquainted with the 
benefits of hi* redemption, that they may share with 
us in them. After we have done all, we must say we 
are unprofitable servants, — we have only done that 
which it was our duty to do. 
5 



26 SELECTIONS. 

Again, we are led to inquire into the manner of 
performing our duty. — It should be performed cheer- 
fully. We should not set about our work like slaves, 
considering it as a task, but with a willing mind and 
cheerful disposition — in the same manner as we per- 
form our duty to an earthly parent. God has re- 
vealed himself to us under the endearing appellation 
of father, — thus showing that our conduct towards 
him should be similar to that towards our earthly 
parent. The child whose heart is full of affection 
towards his earthly parent, exhibits no unwilling- 
ness to obey, but immediately and cheerfully com- 
plies with his requests. Such should be our conduct 
towards our Heavenly Father. 

Our duty towards God should also be performed 
exclusively — that is, nothing should be permitted to 
interfere with the strict performance of it. We are 
very apt, when in the act of performing some good 
thing, to let our thoughts run upon something else ; 
this is particularly true in regard to religion. Christ 
says, ct Ye cannot serve God and mammon ; " we 
must therefore fix our thoughts exclusively on one 
object, and let all our efforts be directed towards 
the attainment of it. In this way, and this only, can 
we expect to advance, — for if we endeavor to go two 
ways at once, we shall soon find ourselves unable to 
make any progress in either. 

After all, unless, while performing our duty, we 
are actuated by motives of affection, it will not avail 
us anything. Christ says, " If ye love me, keep my 
commandments." If we only yield but a cold and 
reluctant obedience to the commands of God, it will 
be but a poor return for his countless mercies. 

In conclusion, it may be remarked, that many of 
us seem, by our actions, to insinuate that our own 
wills must be obeyed first, and God's attended to 
afterwards. What absurdity this ! Indeed, this 
would seem to be performing our duty towards our- 
selves, and not towards God. 



SELECTIONS. 27 



THE PLEASURE OF DOING GOOD. 

Kindness to our fellow mortals, proceeding from 
right motives, in opposition to self-interest, is both 
a duty and a pleasure. It is very proper for every 
one to look well to his own, but he should not con- 
fine himself exclusively to this. Experience will 
teach us that there is a real pleasure to be found in 
seeking to promote the felicity of those around us, — 
that this pleasure is not transient, inasmuch as we 
shall always find objects to exercise our benevolence 
upon. Things are so ordered in this life, that a de- 
pendence on one another, in various circumstances, 
is almost unavoidable. It is stated in God's Holy 
Word, that our Divine Redeemer " went about doing 
good ; " and as it was his delight to do so, so it should 
be, and doubtless is, the delight of all his true fol- 
lowers. His benevolence was carried to such an ex- 
tent, that not only was he ready to perform acts of 
charity when requested, but he sought out objects 
for the exercise of his compassionate feelings towards 
them. 



DISINTERESTED BENEVOLENCE. 

Disinterested benevolence, however, is that 
which deserves from us the highest praise, and what 
we should most endeavor to exercise. Says the 
word of God, " If ye love them which love you, 
what do ye more than others ? Do not even 
sinners the same ? " The parable of the good Sama- 
ritan is a fit emblem of this : — He is represented as 
binding up the wounds of, and procuring a comfor- 
table situation for, a certain man who fell among 
thieves — they leaving him half dead. This man, we 
are led to suppose, was an entire stranger to the good 
Samaritan ; and we have no evidence that the Sama- 
ritan was a man of wealth, but rather suspect the 
contrary ; as he was pursuing his journey, and did 



28 SELECTIONS. 

not then remunerate the innkeeper to whose charge 
he committed the wounded man, but promised to 
repay him at his next visit, — this seeming to show 
that he had not then wherewith to compensate the 
innkeeper for his trouble, although under circum- 
stances in which he was^most likely to be in want of 
money for such and other purposes ; such as the ne- 
cessary conveniences of lodging at night, and re- 
freshments for the day. This kind act of his no 
doubt afforded him more pleasure than the luxuries 
of a feast, and gave him an inward satisfaction more 
exquisite than could be derived from any amusement 
of the fancy. 

We may take, as an instance of kindness, the sup- 
posed case of some persons standing on the brink of 
a precipice, ready to make a leap, allured by some- 
thing attractive at the bottom. A person seeing their 
condition, and knowing that if something is not done 
they will all perish, goes to them, and compels them 
to desist, and thus they are saved. 

The precipice may be taken as a symbol of the 
abyss of woe ; the attraction at the bottom as indi- 
cative of sinful pleasures and unholy desires, which 
mankind are prone to lust after ; their standing at 
the brink of the precipice, about to leap to the bot- 
tom, as betokening the misery to which the human 
race have exposed themselves ; and the person coin- 
ing to them, and compelling them to desist from 
making so ruinous a leap, as referring to the Saviour 
coming from heaven to save our souls from destruc- 
tion. 

It is evident, from the foregoing, 1st. That doing 
good to others is productive of much good to 
ourselves ; 2d. That it lias been the practice and plea- 
sure of all holy beings ; and, 3d. That it is the duty 
of all the true disciples of Christ, 



SELECTIONS. 



REMARKS ON HAPPINESS. 



29 



The great pursuit of mankind is after happiness. 
They seek for it as for hidden treasure. Yet, as to 
what constitutes happiness, there is a great diversity 
of opinion. But it is not strange that different views 
should exisf with regard to this as well as other sub- 
jects. Why should they not ? And many of the 
human race, also, imbibe erroneous ideas as to what 
constitutes true happiness ; they are too apt to cast 
out all thoughts beyond the present life, and seek 
their share of it here. Notwithstanding this, howe- 
ver, they prefer happiness of a durable nature, and 
revolt at the idea of seeking that which lasts but for 
a moment. Many seem to consider this life not only 
as the commencement, but the end of their happi- 
ness. There is a class of persons, however, who 
look beyond the present scene of things, who seek 
not or expect perfect happiness in their present ex- 
istence. This class is formed of such as take religion 
for their guide and rule of conduct ; who study the 
word of God, in which the following assertion of our 
Saviour is recorded : — " In the world ye shall have 
tribulation." Religion, in fact, will make us as hap- 
py as it is possible to be this side of heaven ; but even 
this brings not with it happiness without alloy. 
Temptations there are to be overcome, which will 
require much self-denial ; enemies to be encountered, 
which call upon us to summon all our courage and 
fortitude ; obstacles to be removed ; a control to be 
exercised over our appetites and passions ; the scoffs 
of the giddy and thoughtless to be endured ; and 
u the lusts of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the 
pride of life," to be avoided. Taking all these into 
consideration, and also the demands on all the facul- 
ties of our body and mind to accomplish them, it 
must be seen that a religious life is a life of warfare, 
a life of trial and hardships ; but still not destitute 
of advantage to those who possess it, even in this 
5* 



30 SELECTIONS. 

life. In those whose conduct is regulated by pre- 
cepts of morality and religion, we recognise the bes,t 
members of society, and such as are, of course, the 
most esteemed by their fellow-men ; and when the 
injunction to " let all things be done decently 
and in order " is regarded by them, as it ought al- 
ways to be, we find them generally the most prospe- 
rous in all their concerns. 

It may then be safely asserted, that, compared with 
the happiness to be found in religion, all other hap- 
piness sinks into insignificance. Though, in our 
journey through this world, we find many rough and 
thorny paths ; yet, in view of the glorious prospects 
before us, we can cheerfully pursue our course 
through them, and go on our way rejoicing. Let 
nothing discourage us from so doing. A Saviour 
has been provided, and has completed the work of 
redemption, and now stands ready to open wide the 
gates of heaven to all those who are desirous of and 
striving to enter therein. The harps of angels, at 
the announcement of this wonderful scheme, originat- 
ed in the Divine Mind, struck a livelier strain — hea- 
ven rang with hallelujahs, and saints on earth 
should unite in the strain. And shall we now remain 
insensible to the joy which such an occurrence ought 
to create ? Let us repeat the angels' song, and sing 
" Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace and 
good will to men." 

Happiness attends the righteous wherever they go ; 
such happiness as cannot be taken from them by the 
hand of time, but will follow them through the end- 
less ages of eternity. May this happiness be ours, — 
to the procuring of which let all our powers be di- 
rected. 



REMARKS ON THE NEW YEAR. 

Another year of our lives has passed away. The 
dawn of a new year opens upon our view. Swift 



SELECTIONS. 31 

as an eagle has time flown away. Whilst many of 
our fellow mortals have run their course, we are 
still spared — our existence is yet granted to us. 
Many, perhaps more useful than ourselves, and who 
would have done more honor to their existence, 
have been numbered with the silent dead. Does not 
this call loudly upon us to double our diligence, and 
whatever our hands find to do, to do it with our 
might ? Time is short. Does it not appear so, when 
we reflect on the rapid flight of the past year ? Let 
us reflect how our account for the past year stands 
with God and our conscience ; — what we have done 
to promote his glory, and how conscientious we have 
been in the discharge of our various duties. On such 
reflection, shall we not find that we have been wo- 
fully deficient in performing even the least of our 
duties ? Shall we not find many charges to bring 
against ourselves, and shall we not, therefore, be in- 
duced to resolve to spend our time better the present 
year ? We know not how much more time may be 
allotted us, — we know not that this year will not be 
our last. We know not how soon we shall be called 
from this scene of labor, toil, and care. 

In the first place, then, let us endeavor to perform 
our duty to God more faithfully. To this end, let 
us resolve to " lay aside every weight, and the sin 
which doth most easily beset us, and run with pa- 
tience the race set before us, looking unto Jesus, the 
Author and the Finisher of our faith." Let us en- 
deavor more strictly to live up to the precepts which 
he inculcated, and exercise a more firm and unshaken 
belief in the doctrines which he taught. 

Secondly. Let us endeavor to perform our duty 
more faithfully to our neighbor. Let us make it our 
delight, as it was that of our Divine Redeemer, to go 
about doing good. Let us be more kind and atten- 
tive to those whom we are bound in duty, by kin- 
dred ties, to assist, and more ready and willing to as- 
sist the poor stranger within our gates. Remember- 
ing that with such sacrifices God is well pleased, 



32 SELECTIONS. 



. 



let us not send empty away him who asks our cha 
rity, when we have the means of bestowing it. 

Thirdly. Let us do all in our power — for we cer- 
tainly can do something — towards spreading the gos- 
pel among the heathen. We can do something, — if 
not by our property, by our prayers ; and if the love 
of God is shed abroad in our hearts, we certainly 
shall give them. When we reflect on the happy in- 
fluence which the gospel, wherever introduced, has 
had on the common transactions of life ; when we re- 
flect how much evil has been averted by it ; even 
these considerations alone must awaken within our 
minds a desire to have it disseminated throughout 
the whole habitable globe. But when we reflect on 
the glad tidings of salvation to sinful men, which it 
brings with it, and the prospect of endless felicity to 
the faithful in a future world, if we have any bene- 
volent feelings in our breast, we cannot but express 
an ardent desire for its diffusion u wherever man is 
found," accompanied with corresponding efforts. 

Fourthly. Let us give our countenance and support 
to Temperance Societies, at least by our example. 
These are benevolent institutions, calculated, if not 
to reform the confirmed sot, to keep sober men with- 
in the bounds of gravity, and to cause them to label 
the sparkling glass with these words — " Touch not 
— taste not — handle not." These Societies are be- 
coming more and more prevalent, and it is to be 
hoped will soon be everywhere formed. Wherever 
they are, the morals of the community will be found 
to be more perfect, and its members more respecta- 
ble. Let not Monster Drunkenness spit his poison at 
us. Let us stand aloof from his venomous breath, 
and not suffer the air we breathe to be infected by it. 
We will not come into the presence of any baccha- 
nals, but turn our feet aside from them. * * * * 



SELECTIONS. 33 



A LETTER. 

Dorchester, Oct. 4, 1831. 

Dear Cousin, — Your last letter was truly delight- 
ful. I read it with great pleasure. I am glad that I 
have such a valuable correspondent. I am not so 
spiritually minded as I wish I was, or as I should 
be ; but I hope God will enable me better to under- 
stand and do his will than I hitherto have done. We 
all must meet with trouble here on earth : in what 
way it will come to us, we know not ; but happy are 
we, if we are prepared for it. If we would reign 
with Christ, we must also suffer with him. And 
who would not be willing to suffer for the sake of a 
seat at the right hand of our blessed Redeemer ? Yet 
many seem unwilling to suffer for Christ's sake ; 
even professors of religion, I think we may say. 
But let us not sleep as do others, but let us watch 
and be sober. Sobriety is an essential trait in every 
individual's character. The Bible should be our 
constant rule of practice, and we should study it 
prayerfully, attentively and carefully, every day of 
our lives ; and I am sorry that I have not attended 
more to this duty myself. " The Bible " is indeed 
41 above all price." We ought to receive it as a 
44 voice from Heaven," as His voice speaking audibly 
to us. u Love not the world," says our Saviour ; 
and if we obey his voice, heaven will never appear 
too near to us. My wish both for you and myself is > 
that we may enjoy the felicity of a conscience void 
of offence toward God and man. 

But I will say a few words more. 

1st. What should we do if we had not religion to 
console us in this cheerless world ? Religion ought 
to cheer us, instead of making us feel gloomy ; for it 
was designed to make us happy. 

2d. Let us then make religion our chief, our only 
business ; for it is for this purpose that we were sent 
into the world — to prepare for another and a better* 



34 SELECTIONS. 

3d. Let us then examine our hopes for eternity, 
and see whether we are prepared to meet our God 
and Saviour, and meet them in peace. 

4th. cc Let us rejoice in God, and joy in the strength 
of our salvation." We have God the Father for our 
friend, the Son for our Saviour, and the Holy Spirit 
for our Comforter; heaven for our home, its music 
for our delight, and saints and glorified spirits for 
our companions. 

5th. Looking upward, and beholding by the eye 
of faith " the things the Father hath prepared for 
those that love the Son," and having, as we hope, 
made our peace with God, how can we, or what can 
make us, feel gloomy ! With thankful hearts let us 
adore and praise the God we love. 

My health is quite feeble. I want to see you very 

much. My love to Mr. T , his wife, and little 

£> and J . 

Your affectionate and sincere cousin, 

Samuel C. Clapp. 
v3. C. C, Milton. 






ON THE DEATH OF FRIENDS. 

" Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they 
.•should see his face no more."— Acts xx. 38. 

We are all sensible how hard it is to part with a 
friend whom we tenderly love, even for a short sea- 
son ; but especially when we know not that we shall 
ever behold the face of that friend again. The 
thought that one to whom we are bound by the 
strongest ties of friendship is about to be separated 
from us, perhaps forever, would be even overwhelm- 
ing. We need not, however, harbor such a thought 
in our minds. What the Bible reveals of a future 
state of existence, forbids us so to do. In whatever 
way friends are removed from us in this world, or 
for however long a period, we are assured that such 



SELECTIONS. 35 

a separation cannot be more lasting than our own 
tarry here. 

Death bereaves us of some of our dearest friends. 
We mourn our loss. But the expectation that a re- 
union will soon take place, allays our grief. The 
present state of existence is only a preparation for 
another and a better. It is a pilgrimage to another 
country, that is a heavenly. We set out with our 
friends on this journey ; and, as we know not what 
may happen on the way to obstruct our passage, we 
are not certain which will first arrive at the journey's 
end. If we are left behind, we certainly feel the loss 
of our companions : but, animated by the thought 
that we have but little further to travel, we march 
more cheerfully on our way. 

We certainly know that our friends cannot always 
continue with us in this world ; and that some time 
or other a separation must take place. This, howe- 
ver, cannot be long. The whole life of the oldest 
men is represented in Scripture to be short ; compar- 
ed with eternity, it is indeed so. It becomes our 
duty, then, when friends are taken from us by death, 
to prepare to follow them, — for we cannot reach hea- 
ven without preparation, any more than we can ac- 
complish a journey well without having made the 
necessary provisions. 

Christ has prepared many mansions in his father's 
house for his disciples : and we must endeavor so to 
conduct on our way as to be received into it with 
joy. If we tread in the paths which he has marked 
out, we shall reach in safety this blessed abode, meet 
again our beloved friends, and renew attachments 
never to be interrupted, and so be forever, with them 
in the employments, the praises, and the bliss of 
heaven. 



ON THE DEATH OF A BELOVED RELATIVE. 

There is nothing, perhaps, which is calculated to 
make a stronger or more permanent impression on 



36 SELECTIONS. 

the mind, than the removal from us, by death, of 
near and valued relatives and friends. Such events 
are calculated to direct our thoughts to the unsub- 
stantial nature of all earthly things ; and they also 
lead us to reflect on the certainty of death, and of 
Our own dissolution. There is no time when the 
comforts and supports of religion are more needful, 
than when an afflicting dispensation of Providence 
has deprived us of a near and dear friend. Nothing 
can be substituted in place of religion at such a pe- 
riod. The pleasures of the world seem to have lost 
their charm ; and what once would have roused our 
spirits and made us cheerful, has now no such influ- 
ence over us. Religion seems to be the only thing 
to which we can resort, that will afford us the con 
solation we need ; and the consolations of religion 
blessed be God, are neither few nor small. Oh ! that 
religion might enter into the breast of every one who 
has the misfortune to lose a friend. 

No one is better qualified to speak or write on this 
subject, than he who has witnessed the death-bed 
scene of one of his nearest and dearest friends ; who 
has been called to pay his last tribute of respect t 
this friend, and who is to be permitted no more to 
behold that friend on earth. This qualification is 
possessed by the writer of this paper. I once had a 
father ; yea, a kind, indulgent, tender father. I now 
have none ! I had hoped he might live many years, 
to be a comfort to me, to my surviving parent, and sis- 
ter. I had hoped that I should have the happiness 
of performing for him many more offices of kindness. 
Oh ! it grieves me that I did not do more for him, 
when blessed with his presence, and cheered by his 
approving smile ! May God forgive my neglect of 
duty in this respect. 

But he has gone from us ; — yes, kind, obliging, 
and respected for his integrity and virtue by all his 
friends, lie left this world, undoubtedly, for another 
and a better. And though his mental faculties were 
so disordered at last as to prevent his enjoyment of 



SELECTIONS. 37 

triumphant hope, yet his conscientious deportment, 
his strong attachment to religion, his belief in the 
atonement of Christ, his trust in him as his Saviour, 
and reliance on him for salvation ; his love for the 
scriptures, and daily devotional exercises in his fa- 
mily, — all these considered, relieve our minds from 
any doubt as to his christian state, — they inspire in 
us the fullest confidence that he is now joining the 
company of the redeemed in heaven, in their songs 
of praise to God and the Lamb. 

We do not sorrow for him, then, as those who 
have no hope ; we feel his loss, and feel it deeply too, 
but can we wish him back again ? Indeed we cannot. 
It remains for us to follow his example, and prepare 
to go to that world where we only can expect to 
meet him. Religion only will enable us to do this ; 
that only can ensure us happiness even in this world, 
— and certain it is, that, without it, we can never be 
happy in another. 



THE GOSPEL REQUIRES THAT ALL IMPROVE THEIR 
TALENTS. 

[Written in his last sickness.] 

We ought certainly to do everything in the best 
manner possible. 

God is our best friend, and it becomes us, there- 
fore, to give him our best services : but with many, 
it is far otherwise. Notwithstanding all the bless- 
ings we receive from him, we are so ungrateful as to 
make him very poor returns. 

We should all feel how much we owe for his nu- 
merous benefits, and lift up our hearts to him with 
gratitude and praise. We should consider nothing 
of so much importance as to gain his favor ; — and 
his loving kindness is better than life. 
6 



38 SELECTIONS. 

NONE SHOULD DESPAIR. 

[Written in his last sickness.] 

In every condition of life, and under whatever 
circumstances we may be placed whether prosperous 
or adverse, we should neither be elated nor so cast 
down and dejected as to be driven to despair ; and 
for this reason, because we have an Almighty Friend 
who is ever ready to protect and defend us. 

In seasons of misfortune, sickness, or other cala- 
mity, we should not despair, for God can raise us to 
our former state of ease and enjoyment, or turn our 
trials into benefits. 

May we be able to say, in the words of the Psalm- 
ist, u Why art thou cast down, my soul, and why 
art thou disquieted within me ? Hope thou in God, 
for I shall yet praise him who is the health of my 
countenance and my God." 



GOD IS LOVE. 

[Written with a pencil on a piece of paper — the last record of bis 
thoughts before his death.] 

" God is love : " and ought we not to love Him, 
who is all love to us ? Can we neglect to honor and 
obey him who is continually loading us with favors 
and crowning us with loving kindness and tender 
mercies ? We must answer, no ! — But God is neg- 
lected to be loved, honored, and obeyed. His name 
is sadly profaned ; and yet his compassion is not 
exhausted. His love is still the same ; nor is it to 
be limited — it will always be the same. 



PIECES IN POETRY- 



stanzas ON SPRING. 

11 The winter is past ; the rain is over and gone ; the flowers appear 
on the earth ; the time of the singing of birds is come ; and the voice 
of the turtle is heard in our land." — Solomon's Song, ii. 11, 12. 

Spring ! O delightful Spring ! 
What pleasures dost thou bring ; 
Now wintry winds are gone, 
And thou comest gently on. 

The air with music rings ; 
Hark, how the warbler sings ! 
All nature does rejoice 
With animated voice. 

Now the fields look green, 
And flocks and herds are seen 
Rejoicing on the plain, 
To welcome Spring again. 

Welcome, then, lovely time ! 
And now the hill we'll climb, 
And thoughts shall roam abroad, 
Viewing the works of God. 



40 SELECTIONS. 

The ploughmen to their labors go, 
The husbandman the seed doth sow ; 
And everything, abroad — at home — 
Proclaims, " The time of joy has come ! " 

Shall birds their voices raise, 
The hand divine to praise 
That gives them daily food, 
And man not own him good ? 

No ! man the praise must join 

To laud the power divine 

Who crowns us with success, 

And health and happiness. 
The Spring of life will soon be gone ; 
Improve, ere wintry age comes on ! 



A SUMMER'S MORNING. 

Awake and greet the Summer's morn ! 
The sun reflects his light upon 
The hills and lofty mountains' brow, 
And nature 's clad in beauty now. 

The cooling breezes softly blow ; 
And streams in gentle murmurs flow ; 
The living tribes rejoice in day, 
And birds begin their cheerful lay. 

Shall man neglect his voice to raise 
And join the song of general praise ? 
He who with reason is endow'd 
Should sing, with words and accents loud, 



SELECTIONS. 41 

Praise to the God of heaven and earth, 
Who did to all our joys give birth, 
And still delights to crown our race 
With temporal good and heavenly grace. 



MUSIC. 

PART I. 



How much our wisdom it displays 
To take delight in sacred praise ! 
Our souls with transport should rebound 
At music's all-inspiring sound. 

Awake the flute's melodious strains 
To praise the God that ever reigns ; 
Awake the heart-inspiring fife 
To cheer the christian soldier's life. 

Loud sound the organ's deepen'd voice, 
With cymbals in the Lord rejoice. 
Sound next the sweet-toned clarionet, 
The violin and flageolet ! 

Then all these instruments combined, 
Which charm the human ear and mind, 
Shall swell the hope of realms of bliss, 
Where all is praise and happiness. 

Now tune aloud the human voice ; 
Musicians, in your God rejoice : 
The heart responsive to the lays, 
That He may then accept our praise. 



42 SELECTIONS. 



PART II. THE FLUTE. 

The flute strikes pleasing on the ear 
With sounds melodious to hear ; 
So does the gospel's heavenly sound 
Spread joy and gladness all around. 

The notes proceed from soft to sweet ; 
The heart, with gratitude replete, 
Expands and glows with ardent love 
To praise the God that reigns above. 

From slow to brisk it moves along, 
Which gives new transport to the song,- 
As if our souls, by music driven, 
Were hasten'd on the way to heaven. 

A tender chord now let it touch, 
And may its influence be such 
As shall ingenuous sorrow raise 
For all our vain and sinful ways. 

When, by a gentle turn again, 
It raises to a lively strain ; 
And thus may we anticipate 
The glories of the heavenly state. 



TART III. THE FIFE. 

Ye christian soldiers, march along, 
Nor fear though enemies should throng ; 
But let the fife courage supply, 
For there 's a glorious victory nigh. 



SELECTIONS. 43 

Hark ! 'tis our noble Captain's voice, 
He bids you in his strength rejoice ; 
Gives you the sword of faith to wield, 
And heavenly armor for the field. 



March on, march on, my soldiers brave 
Your faith shall triumph o'er the grave. 
A few more days their course shall run, 
And then the palm of conquest 's won. 

Now shall our music swell again 
With loud and animating strain ; 
From land to land, from pole to pole, 
Let shouts of joy and triumph roll ! 



PART IV. THE TRUMPET. 

Hark ! the strains of minstrelsy 
Move along o'er earth and sea ! 
And the majestic trumpet's sound 
Spreads the acclaim of gladness round. 

What though the sky is thick with clouds, 
And darkness all the scene enshrouds ; 
Yet in the Lord will we rejoice 
With instrument and heart and voice. 

Why should a gloomy thought arise, 
When there 's a world above the skies, 
Where never-ceasing rapture reigns 
In music and angelic strains ! 



44 SELECTIONS. 



THE SAVIOUR'S CALL. 

" Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will 
give you rest." 

When fears tumultuous round me roll, 
And sin and shame overwhelm my soul, 
Away from this vain world I'll flee, 
And, blessed Jesus, come to thee ! 

When nothing here can give delight, 
And prospects fade which once were bright ; 
When us our friends forsake and flee, 
Then, Jesus, we will come to thee. 

When the short spring of life is gone, 
And wintry age is hastening on ; 
Then what a source of joy 'twill be, 
Dear Saviour, to have come to thee ! 

When strength decays and health has fled, 
And earthly comforts all are dead ; 
Then the soul's strength and health we see 
In blest communion, Lord, with thee. 

When this frail earth shall pass away, 
When time shall reach its closing day, 
The trumpet sound, and sinners flee, 
Blest Saviour we will come to thee I 



SELECTIONS. 45 

When heaven with hallelujahs rings, 
Which welcome to the ransom'd brings, 
To praise thy name, dear Saviour, we 
Would join the throng, and be with thee. 



TO CAROLINE— ON THE DEATH OF A FRIEND. 

When virtuous friends from us are gone, 
What cause have we to grieve or mourn ? 
From sin and sorrow they are free, 
And ever happy shall they be- 
Thus, when the virtuous sink and die, — 
When those whose hopes are placed on high 
Are call'd from this vain world of sin, 
Their purest, sweetest joys begin. 

But when our dearest friends below, 
From us, by death, are call'd to go, 
We cannot but give vent to grief, 
Though much w r e have for our relief- 
Yes, Caroline, you've cause to grieve, 
That death did you of one bereave 
Who was by you most dearly loved, 
And a kind sister too has proved. 

But still the thought that she 's at rest 
From that which most disturb'd her breast 
When she sojourned here on earth, 

To cor lation must give birth. 

7* 



46 SELECTIONS. 

The thought, that, in that world of bliss 
Where all is happiness and peace, 
She's chanting of redeeming love, 
Must every anxious fear remove. 

Seek, then, my friend, that heavenly peace 
Which will, through endless years, increase, 
From sin and danger set you free, 
And make you blest eternally. 

Then, on the morning of that day, 
When heaven and earth have pass'd away, 
And you are summon'd at God's bar, 
You shall embrace your sister there. 

Then shall in heaven be placed your seat ; 
Then, prostrate at your Saviour's feet, 
Let love divine inspire your tongue, 
Redeeming love be all your song. 

Let us rejoice in God's rich grace, 
Which offers to our guilty race 
Pardon and peace if we will love 
And praise the God who reigns above. 
January 22, 1829. 



/v. 



SELECTIONS. 47 



ON THE DEATH OF A FRIEND. 

The events of every passing day 
Show us how fast time flies away ; 
A moment scarce we call our own, 
Before forever it has flown. 

Our friends are falling by our side ; — 
Those in whom we did once confide 
Must yield to God their mortal breath, 
And bow to the arrests of death. 

So time will soon announce the day 
When we must die as well as they ; 
For all must die, as God has said, 
The grave must be their lowly bed. 

For death, then, let us all prepare, 
And put away all worldly care ; 
For time, we know, will soon be gone, 
Eternity is hastening on. 

But, though our friends and we must die, 
There is a world above the sky, — 
A world of never-ending bliss, 
Where sorrow shall forever cease. 



48 SELECTIONS. 

No entrance there can e'er be given 
To those who 've slighted God or heaven, 
The wicked " there from troubling cease," 
And there the righteous are in peace. 

What though, from this vain world of woe, 
A friend, by God, is call'd to go 
To that bright world of peace and love ; 
'Tis not a sad, but blest remove. 

And though we ne'er again shall meet, 
Nor shall again each other greet, 
This side the grave — on heaven's blest shore 
We shall unite to part no more. 

For virtuous friends why should we mourn ? 
Since they to that blest world are gone ; 
Redeeming love inspires their tongue, 
Forever it shall be their song. 



*©" 



Now sing aloud the Saviour's praise, 
Who from sin's dire destructive ways 
Has saved our souls, and does forgive 
The penitent, and bid him live. 



FOR THE NEW YEAR. 



Another year of life is gone, 
And still old time will hasten on 
To bring the present to a close, 
With all its pleasures and its woes. 



SELECTIONS. 49 

And so we pass our lives away, 
Not thinking that each fleeting day- 
Brings us still nearer to the grave, 
Prom which no human art can save. 

Yet it affords no small delight 

To see unfolding to the sight 

Scenes full of hope ; — and we will praise 

The Being who prolongs our days. 

With the New Year may we begin 
His grace to seek, his love to win ; 
And then to saints we shall be dear, 
And with them spend a happy year. 

And while in mercy we rejoice 
May sinners hear our warning voice, ' 
And, as their souls to us are dear, 
Be it to them a happy year ! 

And may we in our conduct prove 
How much the wise and good we love, 
And to our friends and kindred dear 
Wish this, indeed, a happy year. 



ACROSTIC. 



A s soon as youth begins to bloom, 

N ew promised hopes its scenes illume ; 

N o sooner is one pleasure gone, 

A group of more come hastening on. 



50 SELECTIONS* 

L et youth be joyful, free from care 

A nd guard against each dangerous snare ; 

R emembering that the soul should be 

K ept free from all impiety, 

I n grace and holiness be found, 

N ew peace shall then your path surround. 

C leansed from all sin's defiling stain, 
L et nothing cause you to complain ; 
A peaceful conscience to the last 
P leasure ensures when time is past. 



ANOTHER. 

M usic ! hark ! the heavenly sound — 
A wake the joy it spreads around ; 
R aise your triumphant songs to praise 
T he God of mercy and of grace. 
H e loves the fervent and sincere, 
A nd will the grateful tribute hear. 

C elestial breezes waft along, 

A nd bear to heaven the sacred song ! 

R aised far from earth on balmy wings ; — 

T hen upward soar while nature sings. 

E ver let praise be on your tongue ; 

R eligion yours, and Heaven your home ! 



SELECTIONS. 51 

MOURNERS COMFORTED. 

[Written in his last sickness.] 

There is a world beyond the sky- 
Where joy and virtue never die, 
But streams of bliss are flowing on, 
And all is bright eternal noon. 

Sorrow shall never enter there ; — 
The christian's agonizing prayer 
Shall there give place to endless joy — 
Unceasing songs his tongue employ. 

And there shall every tear be dry, 
And vanish every fear and sigh ; 
For God will wipe away our tears, 
And banish all our cares and fears. 

Then when from us death doth remove 
The friend whom we sincerely love, 
Whose breast with virtue is replete, 
We'll think in heaven we soon shall meet. 

Then, sons of sorrow, dry your tears, 
Let love divine remove your fears, 
The bliss of heaven inspire your tongue 
To chant a new heart-cheering song. 

Let but a few more days roll on, 
Your pilgrimage on earth is done ; 
The scenes of time close on your view, 
And you begin your life anew. 



52 SELECTIONS. 

The gates of heaven wide open fly, 
Your spirit soars above the sky, 
With angels you shall join to sing 
The praises of your God and King. 



THE END. 



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